The popular adage, “Age is just a number” applies to a lot of things: doing art, publishing a book, taking up a new hobby, and most especially in traveling. Often times, a lot of people worry about seniors traveling the world, and the intentions behind are understandable. Getting old might mean they will get tired easily, might need to follow a strict medication schedule, and so on.
However, it is in our old age that traveling becomes more than just a need to experience the world; it becomes a force that makes us understand it. So there really is not better time to pick up the love for traveling than in our golden age. Before we get on with our travels, though, we need to be fully prepared for lots of unforeseen occurrences. For this reason, we have prepared a small guide for seniors who are planning to travel the world.
Pick shoulder or off-peak seasons
The worst enemy of every traveler is a crowd, more so if you are of a certain age already. To avoid long lines and big groups people, make sure to schedule your travels during shoulder or off-peak seasons. A shoulder seasons is a travel period between peak and off-peak seasons — this is perfect so that your destinations are not totally rid of other travelers.
Learn about what is included in the insurance
The first thing you need to know is seniors need to get a travel insurance. Pay particular attention to medical coverage and how it works abroad. For instance, if there are accidents or if you need to be given treatment, how will your insurance cover the expenses?
You also need to look at evacuation insurance, or the coverage for when you need to be transferred to another medical facility for better treatment. You should know now that if you have pre-existing conditions, you might experience difficulties securing an insurance plan, but there are plans available that will readily waive those exclusions.
Pack light
You should not be lugging around heavy and bulky bags during your trip. So consider taking fewer clothes and just have them laundered if you have run out of items to wear. Important things to have are a jacket that can protect you from the cold or the rain, a hat that can shield you from the heat of the sun, rubber shoes so that your feet will not hurt as much when walking, and comfortable clothes so that you will not have problems moving around. Traveling is a strenuous activity, make it less tedious by packing only what you need.
Important reminders when flying
As much as possible, a direct flight is better to have than a connecting flight. This helps you avoid walking from one terminal to another, which is incredibly difficult if the airport is huge and always busy. However, if it cannot be helped, always ask to ride on the airport’s electric cart so you will not have problems getting to your terminal on time.
Here are a couple of other reminders for your flight:
- Book early so you can choose aisle seats. If you can splurge a bit, upgrade your seats to either an economy plus or first class.
- Take a short walk every hour to help your blood circulation
- Stay hydrated
- Bring a travel pillow with you or ask the flight attendant if they have one so you can be comfortable during a long flight
Traveling is truly a rewarding experience, and your age should not hinder you from it. Keep these tips in mind when you plan for your travel abroad, and it will certainly go off without a hitch.